Bangkok--11 Oct--PATA Chiang Rai
Tourism businesses in Chiang Rai are pleased to announce the formation of the Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA) Chiang Rai Chapter, the 39th chapter in the world. It is the 2nd chapter formed in Thailand following the creation of the national PATA Thailand Chapter in the 1970s. The new Chapter is also the first international travel trade association for Chiang Rai.
A meeting on August 5, 2011 represented by a group from all sectors of the travel industry in Chiang Rai voted unanimously to form the Chapter. The Chapter organizing committee has already met to form the board and heads of committees. Committees formed include education, membership, activities and public relations. Justin Malcolm, General Manager of Le Meridien Chiang Rai Resort was elected Chairman of the Chapter, with Marc Dumur, General Manager of The Legend Resort as Vice-Chairman.
"As we see the number of international arrivals in Chiang Rai increase, and the destination becomes better known, the time is right to ensure the needs of these travellers are represented, “ said Mr Malcolm. “Chiang Rai is a charming province well known for its arts and culture. Our primary objective is to ensure we responsibly protect that heritage, whilst exploring ways to offer value and unique experiences to travellers.”
The Chapter’s long-term goals include developing a sustainable tourism development plan in a joint effort with the Provincial Office of Tourism & Sport, the Tourism Authority of Thailand, and the private sector. An additional objective is to promote Chiang Rai as a must-see destination and a convenient gateway to the Mekong.
About PATA
The Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA) is a not-for-profit travel trade association serving government tourist offices, airlines, hotels and other travel-related companies throughout the Pacific Asia region. PATA provides leadership to the collective efforts of 80 government, state and city tourism bodies, 50 international airlines and cruise lines, and more than 2,000 travel industry companies. PATA's Chapter membership includes 17,000+ travel professionals in 39 PATA Chapters located throughout the world.